Chrys
Men and women
experience various hormonal changes as they age. Reduced testosterone levels
brought on by ageing have been referred to as “male menopause” but is
it the same as menopause?
During menopause in women, ovulation ceases and hormone production
declines in a relatively short time. The reduction in testosterone in men isn’t
the same as menopause in women.
The term “male menopause” is not considered
appropriate by medical professionals. Instead, they prefer to use
“late-onset hypogonadism” or “age-related low testosterone”
to describe the gradual decrease of testosterone levels in males.
Decreased testosterone means a lower sex drive and an
inability to have spontaneous erections or erections at all.
After the age of 40, a man’s testosterone levels typically
decrease by 1% every year. Despite the ageing process, most old men maintain
testosterone levels within the normal range and only a minority of 10% to 25%
have testosterone levels that are considered low.
Many older men with low testosterone levels don’t even know
they have low testosterone. To find out, they need to carry out a blood test,
but this is not very common.
What are the signs and symptoms of “male
menopause”?
- Mood
swings - Loss
of muscle mass - A
decreased capacity for fat redistribution that leads to the appearance of
“man boobs” (gynecomastia) or a huge abdomen - An
overall lack of excitement or energy - Sleeplessness
or weariness - Short-term
memory - Lack
of focus - Hot
flushes or sweats - Low
libido - Breast
discomfort or swelling
What causes male menopause?
Additionally, low testosterone is not the only cause of the
symptoms and signs associated with male menopause. A person’s age, medication,
or other health issues, like having a high body mass, are contributory factors.
Other causes include;
- Physical
causes like smoking, diabetes or heart issues. - Work-related
problems, financial difficulties, concerns about relationships, worries
about ageing parents, and feelings of inadequacy regarding achievements in
personal or professional life can often lead to psychological distress,
which may lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. - Another
possible cause is a “midlife crisis,” which makes many men
question their lives and become depressed.
Can it be treated?
While some people suggest hormone replacement therapy, it is
an uncharted scientific territory that might have dire consequences.
If the cause of low testosterone is psychological, many
people suggest cognitive behavioural therapy to get rid of stress, anxiety and
depression.
